Arusha is a city in East Africa’s Tanzania, located at the base of volcanic Mt. Meru. It’s a gateway to safari destinations and to Africa’s highest peak, 5,895m Mt. Kilimanjaro, lying some 100 kilometers northeast. To the west lies Serengeti National Park, home to wildlife including lions, rhinoceros, giraffes and leopards. Annual migrations feature huge herds of wildebeests crossing its plains.
Arusha sits at the foot of Mount Meru, one of the highest mountains in Africa. It is the gateway to some of a Tanzania safari‘s most spectacular natural wonders, such as the Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Arusha offers a range of activities, from hiking and wildlife viewing to cultural tours and coffee tastings.
Where Is Arusha?
Arusha is a city in northeastern Tanzania, situated at the base of Mount Meru. It serves as a crucial gateway to safari destinations in the region, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Mount Kilimanjaro Africa’s highest peak. Known as the safari capital of Tanzania, Arusha’s location makes it a bustling hub for tourists preparing to explore some of Africa’s most famous landscape and wildlife reserves.
We’ll take you on an exciting Arusha safari in nearby Arusha National Park, where you’ll see soda lakes, flamingo, large mammals, and Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth-highest mountain. If you’re lucky, you’ll also take in the splendour of nearby Mount Kilimanjaro.
Experience the best of Arusha’s outdoors on a full-day Arusha tour. Hike to the breathtaking Materuni Waterfalls, learn about the local coffee brewing industry, savour a locally made hot lunch, and swim in the refreshing waters of Kikuletwa Hot Springs.
Coffee Plantation Walking Adventure
Famous for coffee production, Arusha is home to numerous plantations. A plantation walking tour will introduce you to the process, from growing a healthy coffee plant to achieving the perfect roast. Relax in the plantation gardens and sample the varieties.
Unlock your creativity, learning from a master Tinga Tinga artist about the traditions and lines of this artistic style. Vibrant colours and dotted patterns depict wildlife and scenes of East Africa. A fun, informative and light-hearted activity for children and adults alike, and a perfect way to spend an afternoon.
Arusha Cultural Centre
The Arusha Cultural Centre is a shopping hub 2 kilometres (1.3 miles) from the town. Browse a unique collection of items, including works by local artisans and rare Tanzanian gemstones. Visit the centre’s museum and art gallery that donates its proceeds to elephant conservation.
| Route | Price (KES) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Nairobi ➝ Arusha | 2,500 KES | $25 |
| Nairobi ➝ Moshi | 3,000 KES | $30 |
| Arusha ➝ Nairobi | 2,500 KES | $25 |
| Moshi ➝ Nairobi | 3,000 KES | $30 |
Kenyan passport holders do not need a visa for short stays (up to 3 months) in Tanzania, but they must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity and at least two blank pages. A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if traveling from a country at risk of yellow fever transmission. Upon arrival, travelers must present their passport to an immigration officer and complete an arrival declaration card.
Required documents and items
| Operator | Class | Departure Time |
|---|---|---|
| Regional luxury Shuttle | Standard AC | 08:00 |
| Tahmeed Coach | VIP-Class | 16:45 |
| Coast Bus | Economy Class | 16:45 |
| Kidia One Express | Standard | 20:00 |
